Brian breathed deeply as he glanced at Nick in his hospital gown. The 20-year- old appeared sicker and distant. The brunette stood over the bed. "How are you holding up?"
For the first time Nick released all of his emotion. "I'm scared, Bri. I'm so scared. I don't wanna' die."
"And you won't this is a simple precausion."
Nick gasped. "I'm sorry," he cried.
"For what? You've done nothing wrong."
Nick shut his tired eyes. "Will you do me a favor?"
"Anything."
"Will you get the others here and call my family. I was wrong. I need them here."
"I'd be happy to."
The doctor entered. "All right, Mr.Carter, we're ready now."
Nick stared into Brian's eyes. "Thank you."
Brian nodded. He then made his way to the waiting room and wept. So many thoughts flooded his mind. "How could this happen? How would Kev deal after the loss of his father. And Howie his sister. Nick's parents couldn't lose their first son. And their other children needed their big brother." Somehow, Brian found a way to stop his tears and made the dreaded phone calls.
Hours later Nick awoke to find four sets of eyes gazing down at him.
"Nick, hey, buddy, "Brian smiled.
"Hey," Nick croaked.
Kevin covered his mouth. "Don't talk yet."
Howie appeared to have been crying. "Are you in any pain?"
Nick shook his head "no."
AJ snickered. "Look at the bright side. Some of these nurses are fine."
Nick grinned.
"Your family will be here in the morning. They're flying in from Europe. They'll be here just in time for your results.